Chinese stainless steel flatware is exported worldwide, but certification compliance remains one of the key challenges for importers and brand owners. Understanding core regulatory requirements is essential to avoid customs delays, product recalls, or platform delisting.
This guide explains the key certification standards for stainless steel flatware across five major markets—the United States, Europe (Germany), Australia/New Zealand, Saudi Arabia, and Southeast Asia—in clear, practical language for foreign trade professionals and B2B buyers.
United States – FDA as the Core, Additional Compliance for Children’s Tableware
As the largest export destination for Chinese stainless steel flatware, the United States enforces strict food contact safety requirements.
Core Certification: FDA Compliance (Mandatory)
Products must comply with FDA 21 CFR 177.1520, which regulates material safety and heavy metal migration for food-contact products.
There is no official FDA certificate, but importers are required to prepare qualified laboratory test reports and a Declaration of Conformity (DoC), which are commonly requested by customs authorities and e-commerce platforms.
Practical Tips for Importers
Children’s flatware (under 12 years old) requires additional compliance under CPSIA, including limits on lead, cadmium, and phthalates. A Children’s Product Certificate (CPC) is required, and choking hazard warnings must be clearly indicated.
For US-bound shipments, especially children’s products, selecting a supplier with ready CPSIA compliance can significantly reduce approval time and regulatory risks.
Europe (Germany) – CE Certification and Unified EU Standards
Germany, as a core EU market, follows harmonized European food contact regulations.
Core Certification: CE Certification (Mandatory)
Stainless steel flatware must comply with EU Regulation (EC) No 1935/2004 and relevant EU standards covering food safety and heavy metal control. CE certification confirms that products meet EU market access requirements.
Practical Tips for Importers
Certification must be issued by EU-accredited bodies and is typically valid for five years, with annual audits required. Exports to the UK additionally require UKCA certification, which follows the same technical standards as CE.
Australia & New Zealand – Coordinated Standards with Strict Nickel Release Control
Australia and New Zealand operate under coordinated food safety regulations that are largely aligned with EU and US standards, with particular attention to nickel release.
Core Compliance Requirements
Products must comply with the FSANZ Food Standards Code and be tested according to AS 1534:2016. Nickel release must not exceed 0.5 mg/dm².
Practical Tips for Importers
Migration testing must be conducted by NATA-accredited laboratories. Products should be labeled “For Food Contact” and indicate country of origin. Recycled materials are not permitted for direct food-contact flatware.
Saudi Arabia – SABER Certification and Batch-Based Customs Clearance
Saudi Arabia has strengthened its import control system through SABER, with updated certification rules enforced from 2025.
Core Certification: SABER (Mandatory)
Importers must obtain a Product Certificate (PC) valid for one year, along with a Shipment Certificate (SC) for each shipment. Both certificates are required for customs clearance.
Practical Tips for Importers
The SC must be applied for before shipment arrival, as post-arrival applications are invalid. Close coordination with local Saudi importers is required, and accurate documentation, including the bill of lading, is essential.
Southeast Asia – Diverse Standards with Emphasis on Heavy Metal Safety
Southeast Asia presents strong demand potential but operates under diverse national certification systems.
Core Certification Overview
There is no unified regional standard. Common examples include Thailand’s TIS 3206-2567, Indonesia’s SNI labeling requirements, and Vietnam’s CR certification. Most regulations focus on heavy metal migration control and local labeling compliance.
Practical Tips for Importers
304 and 316 stainless steel are widely accepted across Southeast Asia. Certificates typically have three-year validity with annual reviews. Working with local agents is recommended to confirm country-specific requirements.
Product Line Summary – Compliance-Ready Stainless Steel Flatware Solutions
Our stainless steel flatware product line is designed to meet diverse international regulations while maintaining consistent quality control.
- We provide OEM and ODM services for products made from 304 and 316 stainless steel, with specifications suitable for major global food-contact testing standards.
- For cost-sensitive markets, we also supply Couverts en acier inoxydable 430 with strictly controlled titanium plating quality. These products pass dishwasher testing and comply with European and American food-contact requirements. Optional Intertek test reports are available to support customs clearance.
- For the US market, all children’s flatware products are already compliant with CPSIA requirements. Corresponding test reports from Intertek China laboratories can be provided to support smooth customs clearance and platform compliance.
If you are looking for a reliable supplier for stainless steel flatware and related products, Huashun is a trusted manufacturer based in Jieyang, China. Covering 1,000 square meters, we specialize in wholesaling flatware, kids’ dinnerware, kitchen utensils, and food storage containers, with over 200 designs exported to more than 30 countries.
With over 20 years of experience, we focus on consistent quality and long-term partnerships rather than one-time deals. If you have target markets or specific compliance requirements, feel free to contact us—our team can help recommend suitable materials, certification documentation, and product specifications to support your market entry.
